The MacArthur High School JROTC Highlander Battalion continues to prove why they are one of the best programs in the state. On April 8, they traveled to Oklahoma City to compete in the Oklahoma Drill Teams State Championship, where they competed against teams from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines.
After winning the Army Drill and Color Guard State Championship in 2022, the Highlander Battalion came back stronger and is the 2023 Overall State Champions as well as the back to back title as the Army Drill and Color Guard State Champions and will get to add another banner to the MHS gym.
MacArthur’s Unarmed Drill Team, commanded by Cadet Captain Gracie Kimbrell earned first overall and Best in Army, claiming first in both Regulation and Exhibition Phases and second place during the Inspection Phase; Cadet Kimbrell also received the Commander of Excellence Award.
In the Armed Drill Team category, the team commanded by Cadet Command Sergeant Major John Kennedy won first place overall as well and Best in Army. They were first in the Exhibition Phase and second in the Inspection and Regulation Phases. Cadet Kennedy also received the Commander of Excellence Award.
Additionally, the Armed Color Guard Team commanded by Cadet Major Kai Aguilar won second place overall.
Congratulations to the Highlander Battalion, led by Senior Army Instructor MAJ Craig Redfearn, on all the honors and success of the program. We look forward to celebrating with you in the near future!